Latest news with #ZainTECH
Zawya
14-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
National Investments Company partners with ZainTECH
A Digital Agreement Reshaping the Future of Investment Technology Faleh Sultan: This collaboration marks a major milestone, with the migration of NIC's data center infrastructure to ZainTECH's cloud platform boosting digital readiness A strategic move that strengthens NIC's leadership, unlocks AI potential, and supports sustainable growth in a digital investment landscape.) and Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) Utilizing a fully managed, end-to-end cloud ecosystem including Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) Delivering backup solutions, security patch management, and multi-layered cyber threat monitoring and response In a significant move to accelerate its digital transformation journey, the National Investments Company (NIC) has entered into a strategic partnership with ZainTECH, the digital solutions arm of Zain Group. This collaboration will see NIC migrate its data center infrastructure to ZainTECH's cloud platform, forming part of a comprehensive transformation initiative powered by cutting-edge cloud computing and cybersecurity technologies. The project aligns with Kuwait Vision 2035, which aims to drive innovation and embed digitalization across the national business landscape. The collaboration underscores NIC's commitment to strengthening its digital infrastructure and operational agility by building a secure, scalable technology environment that meets the evolving demands of the global digital economy. It also supports the company's mission to deliver advanced investment solutions powered by intelligent infrastructure and data-driven insights, reinforcing sustainable growth and institutional excellence. A Transformational Milestone Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Faleh Sultan, Managing Director of the Information Technology Sector at NIC, described the partnership with ZainTECH as a pivotal milestone in the company's digital transformation journey. He emphasized that migrating NIC's data center infrastructure to a modern, locally hosted cloud platform will strengthen regulatory compliance, ensure seamless business continuity, and provide a scalable, high-performance technology foundation to support future growth, aligned with the highest standards of operational excellence. Sultan emphasized that the collaboration reflects NIC's ongoing commitment to adopting cutting-edge global technologies and delivering flexible, customized tech solutions that empower clients to succeed in a fast-evolving digital landscape. He noted that the partnership opens new opportunities to leverage cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and advanced cybersecurity, further advancing NIC's goal of achieving full digital transformation and driving a more agile and efficient business model. He explained that this initiative aligns seamlessly with NIC's long-term strategy to foster institutional innovation and deepen technology integration. The partnership with ZainTECH is a key component of a broader strategic roadmap to establish a robust digital operating model that supports business growth and operational excellence. Sultan reiterated that digital transformation is central to NIC's corporate vision, guided by the belief that technology is no longer optional but a strategic imperative for long-term sustainability and growth. He highlighted that the agreement reinforces NIC's leadership in digital innovation within Kuwait's financial and investment sector, setting a regional benchmark in sovereign cloud adoption. He further added that implementing sovereign cloud infrastructure is a crucial step in enhancing NIC's ability to respond to shifting regional and global market dynamics. By embracing this advanced infrastructure, NIC is positioned to accelerate the development of intelligent, adaptive investment solutions, supporting the company's sustainable growth objectives and aligning with the evolving expectations of shareholders and clients alike. This strategic collaboration firmly places NIC at the forefront of responsible and impactful digital transformation across the region. Enabling a Digital Ecosystem Sultan also highlighted that ZainTECH's offerings are built on a fully integrated suite of advanced cloud services, including fully managed Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS), hosted within Zain's Tier III data centers in Kuwait. These solutions guarantee maximum uptime and reliability, with availability levels reaching 99.999%. Additionally, the services encompass backup, security patch management, multi-layered cyber threat detection and response, and a fixed monthly billing model that ensures predictable operating costs, supporting both long-term financial stability and technological efficiency. Driving Institutional Transformation Sultan added that the partnership reflects NIC's vision of building a secure, scalable smart infrastructure capable of integrating advanced technologies such as big data analytics and intelligent systems. This integration contributes to long-term strategic value, enhances decision-making efficiency, and accelerates innovation. He emphasized that adopting the cloud transformation model is a core pillar of NIC's strategic roadmap—not only modernizing infrastructure but also reinventing the corporate experience by fostering innovation and aligning technology more closely with business objectives. Sultan concluded by affirming that building a modern, secure, and flexible IT environment is fundamental to NIC's pursuit of excellence and full digital transformation. This approach extends beyond operational efficiency, opening broader opportunities for smart growth through advanced, data-driven digital investment solutions. It enhances the client experience while reinforcing trust in the company's technological capabilities and operational professionalism. He stated that the partnership represents a strategic step toward reshaping NIC's digital foundation to meet the demands of the digital economy. Collaborating with ZainTECH underscores NIC's commitment to building resilient technologies that accelerate innovation and expand the scope of digital solutions, paving the way for a smarter, more proactive operational environment grounded in security, flexibility, and sustainability. The National Investments Company (NIC) is one of the most prominent investment firms in Kuwait and the broader region. Listed on Boursa Kuwait and regulated by the Central Bank of Kuwait and the Capital Markets Authority, NIC actively operates across diverse sectors locally, regionally, and globally. It has a broad and diverse shareholder base, including leading corporations and high-net-worth individuals. Notably, ZainTECH collaborates with several global partners, including Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, and Google Cloud, to accelerate cloud transformation in Kuwait. These strategic partnerships enable organizations and individuals to leverage a comprehensive range of cloud services, encompassing infrastructure, cybersecurity, and advanced digital solutions.
Channel Post MEA
07-07-2025
- Business
- Channel Post MEA
ZainTECH Obtains International Certifications In Compliance & Service Excellence
ZainTECH has achieved significant milestones in its compliance and certification journey, reinforcing its commitment to international standards and delivering high-quality digital solutions across the Middle East. The company has successfully obtained several globally recognized certifications, covering operations in the UAE ZainTECH CloudHub, that comprises of BIOS Cloud, STS Cloud and regional data centers. The recently awarded certifications include ISO 20000-1:2018 for IT Service Management System, ISO 27017:2015 for Cloud Security, ISO 27018:2019 for Cloud Privacy, ISO 27001:2022 for Information Security Management System, NCA ECC-1:2018 and NCA CCC-1:2020 for Saudi National Cybersecurity Authority Standards, PCI-DSS v4.0 for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, and SOC 2 Type II for Hulool ZainTECH. These achievements underscore ZainTECH's unwavering dedication to strengthening its security, privacy, and IT service management frameworks while enabling compliance with regional regulations and facilitating participation in government tenders and strategic projects acrossthe region. 'Securing these certifications is a testament to ZainTECH's relentless pursuit of excellence, ensuring our clients benefit from industry-leading practices in cybersecurity, cloud services, and IT management,' said Andrew Hanna, CEO of ZainTECH. 'This achievement reflects the collective efforts of our teams for their outstanding contribution to securing these renewals.' ZainTECH's enhanced compliance posture allows it to meet critical requirements, such as the Saudi Communications, Space and Technology Commission's (CST) Class C registration license, and strengthens its eligibility to participate in strategic projects across the region. To maintain its leadership in compliance, ZainTECH is also advancing initiatives to secure additional certifications in 2025, including ISO 22301:2019 for Business Continuity Management, ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management, ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management, and ISO 45001:2018 for Occupational Health & Safety, as well as CSA STAR CCM V4.0.1 renewal and DESC Cloud Service Provider Security Policy Renewal. These efforts demonstrate ZainTECH's proactive approach to continuous improvement, customer trust, and regulatory alignment.
Zawya
07-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
ZainTECH secures international certifications in compliance and service excellence, reinforcing regional leadership
Dubai, UAE — ZainTECH, the integrated digital solutions provider of Zain Group, has achieved significant milestones in its compliance and certification journey, reinforcing its commitment to international standards and delivering high-quality digital solutions across the Middle East. The company has successfully obtained several globally recognized certifications, covering operations in the UAE ZainTECH CloudHub, that comprises of BIOS Cloud, STS Cloud and regional data centers. The recently awarded certifications include ISO 20000-1:2018 for IT Service Management System, ISO 27017:2015 for Cloud Security, ISO 27018:2019 for Cloud Privacy, ISO 27001:2022 for Information Security Management System, NCA ECC-1:2018 and NCA CCC-1:2020 for Saudi National Cybersecurity Authority Standards, PCI-DSS v4.0 for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, and SOC 2 Type II for Hulool ZainTECH. These achievements underscore ZainTECH's unwavering dedication to strengthening its security, privacy, and IT service management frameworks while enabling compliance with regional regulations and facilitating participation in government tenders and strategic projects acrossthe region. "Securing these certifications is a testament to ZainTECH's relentless pursuit of excellence, ensuring our clients benefit from industry-leading practices in cybersecurity, cloud services, and IT management," said Andrew Hanna, CEO of ZainTECH. "This achievement reflects the collective efforts of our teams for their outstanding contribution to securing these renewals." ZainTECH's enhanced compliance posture allows it to meet critical requirements, such as the Saudi Communications, Space and Technology Commission's (CST) Class C registration license, and strengthens its eligibility to participate in strategic projects across the region. To maintain its leadership in compliance, ZainTECH is also advancing initiatives to secure additional certifications in 2025, including ISO 22301:2019 for Business Continuity Management, ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management, ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management, and ISO 45001:2018 for Occupational Health & Safety, as well as CSA STAR CCM V4.0.1 renewal and DESC Cloud Service Provider Security Policy Renewal. These efforts demonstrate ZainTECH's proactive approach to continuous improvement, customer trust, and regulatory alignment. About ZainTECH ZainTECH is a regional integrated digital solutions provider, unifying Zain Group's ICT assets to offer a unique value proposition of comprehensive digital solutions and services under one roof. The company is positioned to drive the transformation of enterprise and government customers in the MENA region by providing a center of excellence and managed solutions across the ICT stack, including cloud, cybersecurity, modern infrastructure, big data, IoT, AI, smart cities, drones and robotics, and emerging technologies. ZainTECH leverages Zain's global reach, unique regional footprint, and infrastructure across its operations in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as in other key markets in the Middle East. ZainTECH forms a key pillar in the evolution of Zain's core telecom business to maximize value and build on the company's many strengths to selectively create and invest in growth verticals beyond standard mobile services. This ultimately supports Zain's vision of becoming a leading ICT and digital lifestyle provider. For more information, please visit For more information, please visit
Kuwait Times
13-05-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Zain Group Q1 net profit soars 66% YoY to $157m; revenue grows 15% to $1.74bn
Al-Kharafi: A remarkable Q1 2025 with solid operational performance and revenue growth KUWAIT: Zain Group, a leading provider of innovative ICT and digital lifestyle communications operating in eight markets across the Middle East and Africa, announces its consolidated financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, with the customer base increasing 20 percent to reach 50.7 million customers. Zain Group recorded impressive revenue growth of 15 percent to reach KD 536 million ($1.74 billion) for Q1 2025. EBITDA for the quarter jumped 15 percent to reach KD 171 million ($554 million), reflecting an EBITDA margin of 32 percent. Net income for the quarter soared 66 percent to reach KD 48.5 million ($157 million), reflecting an Earnings Per Share of 11 fils ($0.04). Key operational notes for Q1 2025 Group revenue grew 15 percent YoY, driven by strong performance across main operations including Sudan (+112 percent), Iraq (+13 percent), Bahrain(+8 percent), Jordan (+7 percent), and KSA (+6 percent) customer base soared20 percent with continual restoration and expansion of network in Sudan, as well as strong growth in Iraq, KSA and other markets revenue grew 6 percent to reach $633million, representing 36 percent of the Group's overall revenue the quarter, Zain Group invested $242 million in CAPEX, reflecting 14 percent of revenues KSA, Bahrain, and Jordan continue to grow their 5G customer base services (Bede in Kuwait and Bahrain; Tamam in KSA and Zain Cash) witnessed revenue growth of30 percent, transaction value increased 25 percent to reach $1.7 billion enterprise revenue witnessed16 percent growth as ZainTECH and B2B teams in key markets secure multiple deals with businesses and governments, ZainTECH revenue soared 184 percent YoY digital services witnessed revenue growth of 2 percent, driven by increase in Kuwait and Sudan Omantel International (ZOI) wholesale carrier achieved exceptional revenue growth of 371 percent YoY base and revenue continue to grow for Zain's digital operator, Yaqoot in KSA and Oodiin Iraq of Global M2M offering to accelerate proliferation of connected devices across region brand valuation up 14.5 percent YoY, to reach a milestone of $3.5 billion, the highest in Kuwait Osamah Al-Furaih, Chairman of the Board said, 'With the introduction of the '4WARD-Progress with Purpose' five-year corporate strategy, the Board will work closely with Executive Management in driving continuity, acceleration, collaboration and digital innovation across all our operations to take Zain to new heights and increase shareholder value. We look forward to expanding our ESG initiatives in providing meaningful connectivity and continuing our positive relationships with regulatory bodies and all stakeholders as we implement '4WARD' to the benefit of customers, communities, and government bodies we proudly serve.' Bader Al-Kharafi, Zain Vice-Chairman and Group CEO commented, 'It was a remarkable first quarter with solid operational performance and revenue growth across key markets, and this bodes well for rest of year as we expect this trajectory to continue, driving shareholder value. Our focus on investing in network upgrades, new technologies and monetizing our 5G and ICT services for both our individual and enterprise customers, coupled with accelerating the growth of several new business verticals, have positively impacted our financial metrics on all levels. So are our operational synergies, cost optimization and digital transformation initiatives in offering customers better services.' 'Our key operations in Kuwait, KSA, Jordan, and Bahrain performed well in line with expectations, despite strong competition and other local challenges. Notably, in Sudan the network restoration efforts have reconnected over 5.8 million customers leading to exceptional operational performance, despite the ongoing geo-political issues. The World Bank is optimistic about Sudan's economic outlook, provided the current conflict eases, which supports our confidence for continued improvement in the coming quarters.' 'The success of our recent AGM, which achieved a distinct quorum of 79.2 percent, witnessed the approval of the Board's recommendation to renew the minimum annual cash dividend policy of 35fils per share for another three years, extending it through to 2028. This marks a clear reaffirmation of Zain's long-term commitment to sustainable and consistent shareholder returns, as well as confidence in business's prospects.' 'Our performance in this quarter was significantly boosted by the expanding impact of our growth verticals, ZOI wholesale, ZainTECH, Dizlee API entertainment platform, and fintech services across our footprint which when combined delivered $191 million in revenue in the first quarter alone, representing a noteworthy 185 percent YoY growth from $67 million in Q1'2024, and now contributing 11 percent to Group total revenue.' 'As the leading 5G provider across the region in regard to footprint, our 5G customer base, both individuals and enterprises in Kuwait, KSA, Bahrain, and Jordan are truly benefiting from the appealing digital technologies and services we offer in enhancing their data experience, and this is driving both revenue and customer growth.' 'Our fintech's growth in revenue and customer base, witnessed increase in transaction volumes across Kuwait, KSA, Jordan, and Bahrain. Recently, in Sudan we launched the Bede brand, a key milestone in our regional rollout. In Kuwait, we look forward to receiving Central Bank approvals to expand our fintech offerings to cater for consumers and businesses. We will continue to foster fintech, expecting this growth trajectory to continue.' 'Zain Omantel International (ZOI) exceptional performance was a result of major capacity deals in Data and Connectivity, a significant growth in voice traffic volumes, as well as expansion in partnerships and international agreements.' 'Likewise, ZainTECH's revenue growth of 184 percent YoY also witnessed several important milestones this quarter. It launched a new Cybersecurity Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) service, helping organizations stay compliant and secure. In Saudi Arabia, ZainTECH was granted a commercial license, allowing it to formalize its regional HQ there, and expand its presence and operations. The entity also joined the NVIDIA Partner Network as a Reseller, one of the few in the region, to bring advanced AI solutions to businesses across its markets.' 'The introduction of our Global M2M offering is a strategic move, capitalizing on our strategic footprint and superior connectivity to position Zain as the regional partner of choice. This service addresses the significant challenges faced by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) operating in or looking to operate in the region. By providing a unified solution that ensures compliance and simplifies connectivity across our extensive network, Zain is empowering the connection of global manufacturers to the Middle East. This will boost the pace of digital transformation of enterprises and governments, driving socio-economic growth across the region.' Al-Kharafi concluded, 'We are confident that the recently launched '4WARD-Progress with Purpose' will unleash Zain's full potential in transforming from a telco to a purpose driven TechCo conglomerate providing 'Better Lives and Lasting Connections'. '4WARD' will provide the necessary impetus for Zain's continued relevance and impact on shaping societies and providing meaningful connectivity and drive the Zain brand value to new heights.' Financial KPIs of key markets for Q1 ended March 31, 2025 KUWAIT: Maintaining its market leadership, the flagship operation's customer base stood at 2.6 million. Q1 2025 revenue was slightly higher at KD 94 million ($303 million), EBITDA increased 2 percent to reach KD 32 million ($103 million), representing an EBITDA margin of 34 percent. Net income increased 2 percent to reach KD 18 million ($58 million), for Q1 2025, with data revenue accounting for 36 percent of total revenue. Zain Kuwait is currently preparing to deploy 5.5G services on its network as well as focusing on increasing its postpaid mobile customer base to enhance ARPU through appealing device and data offerings. SAUDI ARABIA: For Q1 2025, revenue grew by 6 percent to $718 million, EBITDA for the period increased 5 percent to reach $217 million, reflecting an EBITDA margin of 30 percent. Net income for the quarter soared 40 percent to reach $25 million. The operator's data revenue grew by 2 percent, representing 39 percent of total revenue, and active customers increased 3 percent to stand at 9 million. The operator witnessed continued growth in 5G and B2B revenue, with Yaqoot - Zain KSA's digital arm witnessing 1 percent growth in revenue, and Tamam, the consumer microfinance arm, witnessing revenue growth of 31 percent, all of which contributed towards the increase in top-line. IARQ: For Q1 2025, revenue grew 13 percent to reach $286 million and EBITDA increased 13 percent to reach $105 million, reflecting an EBITDA margin of 37 percent. Net income for the quarter soared 73 percent to reach $26 million. Customer base increased 11 percent to 20.7 million, reflecting a market leading position, driven by the investment in Tower expansion and monetizing new B2C and B2B products and services. SUDAN: For Q1 2025, Zain Sudan showed strong signs of recovery and growth despite the ongoing challenges in the country. Revenue for the quarter soared 112 percent to reach $107 million, with EBITDA reaching $61 million, up from $12 million last year, an increase of 423 percent, reflecting an EBITDA margin of 57 percent. Net income soared 138 percent to reach $53 million. The operation's exceptional growth across all KPIs was driven by the successful restoration of 1,564 sites, including 219 sites in newly liberated areas of Khartoum. This network recovery saw the customer base more than double, jumping 110 percent YoY from 5.2 million to 11 million in Q1 2025. JORDAN: For Q1 2025, Zain Jordan revenue grew 7 percent to reach $141 million, EBITDA slightly increased to reach $55 million, reflecting an EBITDA margin of 39 percent, with net income increased 8 percent to reach $18 million. Data revenue grew 10 percent on the back of its continually expanding 5G network, representing 53 percent of total revenue. Customer base increased by 5 percent to stand at 4.1 million, maintaining its leading position. BAHRAIN: For Q1 2025, Zain Bahrain revenue grew 8 percent to reach $56 million, an increase of 8 percent, EBITDA reached $14 million, reflecting an EBITDA margin of 26 percent. Net income increased by 10 percent to reach $3.1 million, with data revenue growing 4 percent to represent 44 percent of total revenue. Zain Chairman of the Board Osamah Al-Furaih Zain Vice-Chairman and Group CEO Bader Al-Kharaf Zain headquarters' building.
Daily Tribune
11-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Zain Showcases AI Innovation
TDT| Manama Zain Group has strengthened its position as a digital innovation leader by hosting a three-day 'Data and AI' workshop in Amman, Jordan, in partnership with Cloudera and ZainTECH. The event brought together technology and data experts from across Zain's eight markets in the Middle East and Africa to explore the vast potential of artificial intelligence and data strategies. The workshop aligns with Zain's '4WARD-Progress with Purpose' corporate strategy, aimed at expanding digital capabilities and driving sustainable growth. It particularly focused on the 'Customer Delight' and 'Digital Zain' pillars to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. Focus on collaboration Mohammad Al-Marshed, Zain Group Chief Technology Officer, emphasised the transformative impact of AI. 'AI's ability to rapidly and accurately analyse massive amounts of data has emerged as a driving force across industries. This Forum allowed our teams to understand AI's potential and strategise with Cloudera and ZainTECH on its deployment and monetisation,' he said. The first day of the event featured keynotes and insights into the latest industry trends, including demonstrations of Cloudera's advanced AI tools and models. The second day included a Datathon, where teams collaborated to create practical use cases under real-world conditions. Practical innovation showcased The Datathon concluded with presentations to a judging panel. The winning team delivered a full business use case, from concept to demonstration and deployment, within just 48 hours using Cloudera Agent Studio. Zain Group Strategy executives also used the occasion to present the company's Data and AI strategy, which forms a key pillar of the '4WARD-Progress with Purpose' approach. Driving customer excellence Cloudera's hybrid platform plays a central role across Zain's operations, providing data, analytics, and AI capabilities with strong security and scalability. Zain uses AI to optimise network performance, predict equipment failures, and personalise customer experiences, leading to cost savings and reduced downtime. The Data Office at Zain, working closely with ZainTECH, has advanced data governance and standardised frameworks to drive data literacy and customer-focused services across the organisation.
